Parramatta co-captain Reni Maitua says he is proof positive that players suspended for drugs violations can successfully return to the NRL.

Maitua was hit with a two-year ban after testing positive to the banned substance clenbuterol in 2009 while at Cronulla before returning to rugby league with the Eels midway through 2011.

As up to 17 players across two different clubs reportedly mull over deals proposed by the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) that would result in cutting possible two-year bans to six months for an admission of guilt, Maitua will lead the Eels out against Canterbury at ANZ Stadium on Thursday charged with the responsibility of spearheading a new era of success at the club.

Maitua claimed he ingested clenbuterol – a drug used to increase muscle mass made famous by disgraced cyclist Alberto Contador who had the 2010 Tour de France title stripped after testing positive to the stimulant – mixed in with a recreational drug.

But the former Kangaroo took his suspension on the chin and said he was determined to redeem himself.

“It depends how bad you want to comeback,” Maitua said on Wednesday.

“It’s up to the individual. If they serve a suspension they will do the time and they will have to work hard to get back to it.

“But I hope it doesn’t get to that. Let’s just see what happens.”

Maitua said he hoped for the sake of the players and the game of rugby league that the matter is sorted out as soon as possible.

“I couldn’t tell you what the players are going through at all, I’m in the dark as much as everyone else is. Obviously it’s tough for them and hopefully they get through it,” he said.

“I just hope it gets resolved quickly.

“If they were cheating get rid of them. If they weren’t, move on.”